Election officials prepare for possible armed federal agents at polling places during the Nov. 3 midterms. Three federal lawsuits ask a court to block President Trump from sending agents; officials say their presence could cause voter confusion and concern.
Federal law prohibits stationing “troops or armed men” at polling places unless force is necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States. The lawsuits were filed Sept. 10 by Latino groups, Sept. 18 by civil rights groups and labor unions, and Sept. 24 by Democratic Party officials.
Election administrators in Nevada and Denver are consulting state and local law enforcement about how to respond if agents try to enter polling places. Nevada Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar said he believes the threat is aimed at Latino voters, who make up 30% of Nevada’s electorate, to discourage them. Denver Clerk and Recorder Paul Lopez said local police should arrest agents who violate local, state or federal law. Former Justice Department lawyer David Becker said he does not think armed agents will appear.
